December is part of the major dry season; coastal areas are particularly attractive with sunny weather and warm seas. This is a peak travel period with higher prices and crowded beaches and hotels. Plan and book ahead if traveling over the holidays.
SeasonHigh SeasonTemperature 24 to 31°C (75 to 88°F)Crowds HighPrices High
Average daily low and high (°C) and monthly rainfall. The badge shows how it feels, allowing for humidity.
Temperature map
-30°-20°-10°0°10°20°30°40°
Average temperature across Ghana in December.
Where to Go in Ghana in December
Coastal Belt - Greater Accra & Central Coast
Accra, Tema, Cape Coast
Dry, breezy conditions set in during December as the Harmattan begins to arrive; mornings can be dusty with reduced visibility, but days are sunny and warm in the high 20s. Coastal evenings are comfortable and popular for open-air dining and festivals; however, the dust can irritate eyes and throat so travelers with respiratory concerns should carry masks or eye drops. Beach season picks up, and this is a top window for reliably dry weather along the coast.
Central Forest & Ashanti Plateau
Kumasi, Kakum, Lake Bosomtwe
December sees dry, cooler mornings and crisp air on the plateau compared with the coastal strip; it’s a favorite month for trekking moderate trails and attending year-end festivals in the Ashanti region. Harmattan dust can occasionally reach the Ashanti Plateau but is less persistent than on the coast; evenings can cool noticeably, so pack a light sweater. Wildlife viewing improves as animals concentrate around remaining water sources.
Volta Region & Eastern Highlands
Ho, Wli Falls, Kwahu Plateau, Lake Volta fringe
December brings dry, sunny days and cooler nights across the Volta highlands; Harmattan dust can reach lower valleys but the high sites often feel fresher and breezier. This is a popular time for weekend escapes from Accra to the hills-book ahead for the Kwahu Easter season build-up and holiday weekends. The dry weather makes waterfalls less dramatic but hiking and open-air activities are at their most comfortable.
Northern Savannah - Northern Region & Tamale
Tamale, Mole National Park, Bolgatanga approach
December’s dry days and cool nights are prime for northern safaris and early-morning walks; daytime temps are warm but bearable and Harmattan dust can make the sunrise colours very dramatic. Lodges are busy with visitors wanting reliable game drives and clear skies for photography. Nights get noticeably cooler-pack a warm layer for early starts and late drives.
Upper East & Upper West - Far North
Bolgatanga, Wa, Bawku areas
Dry, dusty conditions often dominate December as Harmattan picks up, producing coarse haze on some mornings but usually bright sunshine by midday; visibility can be reduced early in the day. Temperatures are comfortable compared with the pre-rain heat and travelers find the region pleasant for open-air touring and market walks. Bring a scarf and eye protection for dusty mornings and a light jacket for cool nights.
Events & Festivals in December
Christmas & New Year festivities
December hosts major public holidays and many local celebrations, drawing domestic and international visitors to beaches and cities.
Planning a trip to Ghana?
See how December compares with the rest of the year, then read the full guide.
